The Translation Profession

Translators are professionals who are dedicated to continuously improving their skills and knowledge in a broad variety of subjects
Translators tackle many new subjects for translation during the course of the year. An innate curiosity and willingness to explore new topics and the ability to quickly grasp new material are important for success.

Translators are language professionals
In addition to fluency in two or more languages, translators must be proficient writers with excellent vocabulary and grammatical skills, and must be comfortable creating translations in several writing styles.

Translators are technically proficient
Translators possess the technical skills necessary to handle sophisticated translation software, the latest hardware, and a vast array of file formats from customers.

Translators are service providers
Translators provide solutions to their customer's translation needs, from small personal translations to large documents, for example books, manuals and software. In addition to translating, multi-language services may include:

• journalism, copy writing, creative writing in a foreign language
• voice-overs, dubbing, foreign voice productions
• desktop publishing
• international marketing, public relations
• software localization
• cross-cultural consulting
• language tutoring

Translators are specialists
Most translators who service the global business market specialize in one subject area such as medical, technical, financial or literary translations. In addition to their experience as translators, translators typically have a professional and educational background that enhances their translation skills, and may have a background in medicine, computer programming or journalism.